Endocrine Abstracts

Although characterised predominantly for its role in the brain, the neuropeptide kisspeptin has previously been shown to potentiate glucose-stimulated insulin through its receptor, GPR54; expressed abundantly in β-cells. We have previously reported a physiological role for kisspeptin signalling in the islet adaptation to pregnancy, using a β-cell specific GPR54 knockout mouse line (βGPR54ko). The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of impaired &#...

Previous studies have shown beneficial effects of the corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) family, including the urocortins (UCN1, UCN2 and UCN3), on pancreatic islets and subsequent glucose homeostasis. However, the physiological relevance of this interaction is not currently understood. CRH and urocortins are also expressed by placenta, so this study investigated whether signalling through CRH receptor 1 or 2 (CRHR1/CRHR2) plays a role in the islet adaptation to pregnancy. ...

Gestational diabetes (GDM) occurs when beta-cell insulin secretory capacity is insufficient to meet the increased demands required to maintain normoglycemia during pregnancy. Considerable clinical evidence supports a link between depression and GDM, although underlying mechanisms are unclear. We used the unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) rodent model of depression to examine the metabolic effects of depression in pregnant mice. C57BL/6J females were divided at 4-weeks-o...